Service Rifle and Pistol and Marksmanship

8/3/2019 Service Rifle and Pistol and Marksmanship

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CHAPTER 3

SERVICE RIFLE AND PISTOL AND MARKSMANSHIP

As a Seabee, you make important contributions to

the Naval Construction Force (NCF) activities. You are

important as an individual as well as a Seabee. The NCF

is made up of individuals like you, working together as

a team. The ultimate goal of the NCF is success in its

construction projects as well as the defense of these

projects when needed. Your job is to help achieve that

success and to help provide that defense. You may have

to fight alone; but most of the time, you will work and

help defend a site with other Seabees under a unit or

team leader. You can prepare yourself for defense by

acquiring the knowledge and skills needed for using

both individual and crew-served weapons. You, as aSeabee, are likely to be required to use them; therefore,

they are discussed in the next two chapters.

Basic and introductory information about Seabee

weapons is given so you can load, fire, field strip, and

clean the service rifle, service pistol, light machine gun,

light antitank weapon, grenade launcher, and mortar.

This chapter covers functioning, mechanical

training, assembly and disassembly, loading and firing,

ammunition, safety precautions, and marksmanship

techniques for both the M16A1 and M16A2E3 service

rifles and the .45 caliber pistol.

THE M16A1 AND M16A2E3 RIFLES

The M16A1 and the M16A2E3 service rifles (figs. 3-1

and 3-2) are 5.56-mm, magazine-fed, gas-operated

shoulder weapons. Their design provides for either

semiautomatic or automatic fire by means of a selectorlever.

The M16A1 is equipped with a flash suppressor, but

the M16A2E3 has a flash compensator to hold the muzzle

down during rapid and automatic firing.

The barrel of the M16A1 is covered by two

aluminum-lined fiber glass handguards (fig. 3-3). Thesehandguards have notches to permit air to circulate

around the barrel and to serve further as protection for

the gas tube. On the M16A2E3, the handguards are roundand ridged (fig. 3-2), making them stronger and easierto grip. The handguards are interchangeable; the

handguard retaining ring is also specially contoured and

easier to grip.

A clothespin biped is issued to, and used by, the

automatic rifleman. The biped attaches to the barrel

directly beneath the front sling swivel (fig. 3-4).

A forward assist assembly (fig. 3-1), located on the

right rear of the upper receiver, permits closing of the

bolt when the force of the action spring does not.

Figure 3-1.M16A1 service rifle, 5.56 mm, left and right side views.

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Figure 3-2.M16A2E3 service rifle, 5.56 mm.

Figure 3-3.Fiber glass handguard.

The trigger guard adapts easily for use in winter

operations. A spring-loaded retaining pin is depressed

so the trigger guard swings down along the pistol grip,

allowing ready access to the trigger when cold weather

mittens are being worn.

Figure 3-4.Attaching clothespin bipod to M16 rifle.

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Figure 3-5.Selector lever pointing to SAFE.

Figure 3-6.Removing the magazine.

An ejection port cover prevents sand and dirt from

getting into the ejection port. It should be closed during

periods when firing is NOT anticipated and will open byeither forward or rearward movement of the bolt carrier.

The M16A2E3 is an improvement over the M16A1 in

the following ways:

The barrel is 3 to 4 ounces heavier. The new

barrel spins the bullet one turn in 7 inches, compared to

one turn in 12 inches by the M16A1.

The M16A2E3 has a maximum effective range of

800 meters, compared to 500 meters for the M16A1.

The front sight post is now square instead of

round, making it easier to see.

Left-handed shooters have some protection from

injury with a built-in brass deflector located at the rear

Figure 3-7.Pulling the charging handle rearward.

Figure 3-8.Locking the bolt open.

of the ejection port. The stock of the rifle is 5/8 inch

longer, making it more comfortable and easier to handle.For economy in communication, the following

maintenance procedures (clearing, field-stripping,assembling, etc.) for the M16 service rifles are writtenfor the right-handed Seabee. The left-handed Seabee canreverse hand directions for these procedures if itimproves their efficiency.

CLEARING THE RIFLE

The first precaution to take in handling any weapon

is to make it safe by clearing it. To clear the Ml 6 rifle,place the butt against the right thigh and proceed asfollows:

1. Attempt to point the selector lever toward SAFE,the position shown in figure 3-5. If the weapon is notcocked, the selector lever cannot be pointed towardSAFE. If that is the case, do not cock the weapon at this

time; instead, go on to the next step in clearing.

2. Remove the magazine, as shown in figure 3-6.

Grasp it with the right hand (fingers curled around thefront of the magazine, thumb placed on the magazine

catch button). Apply pressure on the magazine catchbutton with the thumb, and pull the magazine straightout of the weapon.

3. Lock the bolt open, as shown in figures 3-7 and3-8. Grasp the charging handle with the thumb and

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Figure 3-9.Pressing takedown pin to the right.

Figure 3-11.Pressing out receiver pivot pin.

Figure 3-10.Breaking upper receiver away from lower receiver.

forefinger of the right hand, depress the charging handle,latch it with the right thumb, and pull to the rear (fig.3-7). When the bolt is fully rearward, press the bottomof the bolt catch with the thumb or forefinger of the lefthand (fig. 3-8). Allow the bolt to move slowly forwarduntil it engages the bolt catch, and return the charginghandle to its forward position.

4. Inspect the receiver and chamber of the weapon,by looking through the ejection port, to ensure thesespaces contain no ammunition.

5. Check the selector lever to ensure it pointstoward SAFE; then allow the bolt to go forward bydepressing the upper portion of the bolt catch.

CAUTION

The selector must be on SAFE to preventdamage to the automatic sear during assembly

and disassembly.

FIELD-STRIPPING THE RIFLE

The individual Seabee is authorized to disassemblethe M16 to the extent termed field-stripping.Field-stripping is done without supervision and isadequate for normal maintenance. As the weapon isdisassembled, lay out the parts on a table or other clean

Figure 3-12.Upper and lower receiver groups.

surface in the order of removal from left to right. Thismakes reassembly easier because you can assemble theparts in the reverse order of disassembly.

The steps infield-stripping are as follows:

1. Remove the sling, and place the rifle on a tableor flat surface, muzzle to the left.

2. Turn the weapon on its right side, keeping themuzzle to the left. Press the takedown pinto the right(fig. 3-9) until the upper receiver swings free of thelower receiver (fig. 3-10).

CAUTION

The takedown pin does not come out of thereceiver.

3. Press out the receiver pivot pin (fig. 3-11).Separate the upper and lower receiver groups (fig. 3-12),and place the lower receiver group on the table.

CAUTION

The receiver pivot pin does not come out ofthe receiver.

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Figure 3-13.Removing bolt carrier from receiver.

Figure 3-14.Removing the charging handle.

Figure 3-15.Pressing out the firing pin retaining pin with thetip of a cartridge.

4. Pickup the upper receiver group, keeping themuzzle to the left. Grasp the charging handle; press in

on the latch and pull it to the rear (fig. 3-7) to removethe bolt carrier from the receiver. Grasp the bolt carrierand pull it from the receiver (fig. 3-13). When the boltcarrier is removed, the charging handle frills free of its

groove in the receiver (fig. 3-14). Place the receiver onthe table.

5. Press out the firing pin retaining pin (fig. 3-15)

to disassemble the bolt carrier group. Elevate the front

of the bolt carrier, and allow the firing pinto drop fromits well in the bolt (fig. 3-16). Rotate the bolt until the

cam pin is clear of the bolt carrier key. Remove the cam

pin by rotating it 90 degrees (one-quarter turn) and

Figure 3-16.Removing the firing pin.

Figure 3-17.Removing the cam pin.

Figure 3-18.Removing the bolt from the bolt carrier.

lifting it out of the well in the bolt and bolt carrier (fig.

3-17). After the cam pin is removed, the bolt can be

easily removed from its recess in the bolt carrier (fig.

3-18).

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Figure 3-19.Removing the buffer assembly and action spring.

Remove the extractor by first pushing the extractor

pin out with the firing pin. Then, while maintainingpressure on the rear portion of the extractor with your

index finger, withdraw the firing pin from the extractor

pinhole. Release the pressure from the extractor and

remove. The extractor should be disassembled onlywhen necessary for cleaning. Disassembly of the

extractor should be supervised. Since the extractor pin

is quite small, handle it with care to prevent loss or

damage.

NOTE: Do not remove the extractor spring from

the extractor. If the spring falls out of its recess, thebattalion armorer should replace it.

6. Push in on the buffer assembly, using the index

finger of the left hand. With the nose of a cartridge or

some similar object, push down on the buffer retainer

(fig. 3-19, view A). To remove the buffer assembly, press

the hammer downward past the cocked position. After

the body of the buffer assembly has cleared the hammer,you can withdraw the action spring from the lowerreceiver (fig. 3-19, view B).

NOTE: The action spring is under pressure;therefore, take care when you are removing it. Step 6should be performed only when absolutely necessary forcare and cleaning.

Figure 3-20 shows the Ml6A1 service riflefield-stripped after you complete the above steps.

ASSEMBLY OF THE RIFLE

To assemble the rifle, reverse the procedures ofdisassembly.

1. Insert the end of the assembly spring into thelower receiver extension; depress the cocked hammer toallow passage of the buffer assembly; depress the bufferretainer with the nose of a cartridge or the tip of the firingpin; seat the buffer assembly; and then release the buffer

retainer.

2. Assemble the bolt carrier group by grasping thebolt and the extractor with the action spring. Seat theextractor in the extractor recess; apply pressure on theextractor to align the pinhole; and then insert theextractor pin. Pickup the bolt carrier with the carrier keyup and to the front; insert the bolt into the front of thebolt carrier, ensuring that the ejector is down and to theleft. Replace the cam pin into its well, and rotate the cam

pin 90 degrees (one-quarter turn) to align the holes forthe firing pin in the bolt and the cam pin. Grasp the

lugged rim of the bolt, and turn it until the cam pin isdirectly under the bolt carrier key. Insert the firing pinthrough the open end of the bolt carrier and seat it folly.Insert the firing pin retaining pin (if you encounterresistance, rotate the pin while inserting it).

CAUTION

Do NOT attempt to spread the slotted endof the firing pin retaining pin. Check for properassembly by elevating the front of the bolt. Ifthe firing pin drops out, the firing pin retaining

pin is not between the front and rear spool. Thebolt carrier group is improperly assembled.

3. Grasp the upper receiver with the carryinghandle up. Place the charging handle into the groove inthe top of the upper receiver. The lugs on the charginghandle must be seated in their grooves in the receiver.Place the bolt carrier group into the open end of thereceiver, ensuring that the bolt carrier key is in the slot

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Figure 3-20.The M16A1 service rifle field-stripped.

on the underside of the charging handle and the bolt isforward in the unlock position. Push forward on the boltcarrier group and charging handle until it is fully seated.

4. Place the upper receiver group and lowerreceiver group together, and reseat the receiver pivotpin.

5. With the hammer cocked and the selector leveron SAFE, close the weapon and seat the takedown pin.

6. Replace the handguards, and be sure that the slipring is fully seated on the lower lip of both sections ofthe handguards. Take care to prevent damage to theupper and lower lips and to ensure proper seating.

7. A complete fictional check of the rifle consistsof checking the operation of the weapon while theselector is in the SAFE, SEMI, and AUTO positions.Use the following sequence for a rapid, complete check.You may use any portion of the check alone to determine

the operational condition of any specific fire selection.a. SAFE position. Pull the trigger; the hammer

should not fall.

b. SEMI position. Pull the trigger; the hammershould fall. Hold the trigger to the rear, recock thehammer, and release the trigger. The hammer should

transfer from hammer hooks and disconnect to the

hammer and sear engagement.

c. AUTO position. Pull the trigger; the hamme

should fall. Hold the trigger to the rear, and recock th

hammer. The hammer is now under the automatic sear

Still holding the trigger to the rear, push forward on th

automatic sear. The hammer should frill. Still holdinthe trigger to the rear, recock the hammer, release the

trigger, and push forward on the automatic sear. The

hammer should transfer to the sear engagement. Move

the selector lever to SAFE or SEMI position. Close the

receivers and engage the takedown pin.

CAUTION

If the selector lever is not moved to the

SAFE or SEMI position before you close the

receivers, you can damage the automatic sear.

d. SEMI position. Pull the charging handle to

the rear. Make certain the chamber is clear; then releas

the charging handle. Pull the trigger. The hammer shoul

fall.

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Figure 3-21.Loading cartridges into the magazine, 20 roundscapacity.

LOADING THE MAGAZINE

The magazine has a capacity of 20 rounds and maybe loaded with any amount up to that capacity. Themagazine follower has a raised portion generallyresembling the outline of a cartridge. Cartridges areloaded into the magazine so the tips of the bullets pointin the same direction as the raised portion of the follower(fig. 3-21).

CAUTION

Do not load or attempt to load more than

20 rounds in the magazine. Overloadingdeforms the lips of the magazine and causesmalfunctions.

UNLOADING THE MAGAZINE

To prevent damage to the lips of the magazine,remove the ammunition in the following manner:

1. Hold the magazine in your left hand with theopen end away from your body and with the nose of thecartridge down (fig. 3-22, view A).

2. Depress the center of the second round in themagazine using the nose of the cartridge, allowing thefirst round to drop out of the magazine (fig. 3-22, viewB). Repeat this procedure until you remove all therounds from the magazine except the last one.

3. Use the nose of the cartridge to depress thefollower to remove the last round, allowing the lastround to drop out of the magazine (fig. 3-22, view C).

Figure 3-22.Unloading the magazine with the nose of a cartridge.

LOADING THE RIFLE

With the hammer cocked, place the selector leveron SAFE. (See fig. 3-6.) Notice that you cannot placethe selector lever on SAFE unless the rifle is cocked.You may insert the magazine with the bolt and boltcarrier open or closed; however, you should learn to load

with the bolt open. This reduces the possibility offirst-round stoppage and saves the time needed to pull

the charging handle to the rear.

Hold the stock of the rifle under your right arm with

your right hand. Grasp the pistol grip; then point the

muzzle in a safe direction. With your left hand, insertthe loaded magazine into the magazine housing. Pushupward until the magazine catch engages and holds the

magazine. Rap the base of the magazine sharply withthe heel of your hand to ensure positive retention. If theaction is open, release the bolt by depressing the upperportion of the bolt catch with the thumb of your left hand,

allowing the action to close, chambering the round. Ifthe action is closed when the magazine is inserted, pull

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the charging handle fully to the rear with your right handand release it. (See fig. 3-7.)

NOTE: Do not ride the charging handle forwardwith the right hand. If the charging handle is easedforward from the open position, the bolt may fail to lockIf the bolt fails to go frilly forward, use the bolt closureforward assist assembly (fig. 3-1) with the heel of yourright hand. The rifle is now loaded and is ready to fire

when you place the selector lever in the automatic orsemiautomatic position. If it is not ready to fire, makesure the selector lever is on SAFE.

After the last round has been fired, the bolt catchholds the bolt carrier to the rear. To change the magazinefor reloading, press the magazine catch button; removethe empty magazine from the weapon.

FIRING THE RIFLE

The rifle fires semiautomatically or automatically

when you move the selector lever to the desired position.(See fig. 3-5.) With the selector lever in thesemiautomatic position, the rifle fires one round each

time you pull the trigger. With the selector lever in theautomatic position, the Ml6A1 rifle continues to fireuntil the magazine is empty or you release the trigger.The M16A2E3, mentioned earlier, cannot fire fullyautomatically, but fires in short bursts of three rounds.When the rifle is fired in either SEMI or AUTO, the boltlocks in the open position when the last round from themagazine has been fired.

MALFUNCTION, STOPPAGE,AND IMMEDIATE ACTION

Malfunction is an unplanned cessation of fire. A

malfunction occurs because of a stoppage causedby a mechanical failure of the weapon, magazine, orammunition.

A stoppage is any interruption in the cycle offunctioning caused by faulty action of the weapon orfaulty ammunition To connect this problem, you shouldreplace either the worn or broken part or theammunition.

Immediate action is the action you take to correctthe stoppage without analyzing the cause. Immediateaction to clear a stoppage in the rifle is as follows:

Slap up on bottom of the magazine

Pull charging handle to rear

Observe for an ejection of the round

Release the charging handle

Tap the forward assist

Aim on target

Squeeze the trigger again

NOTE: Apply immediate action only one timefor a given stoppage. If the weapon still fails to fireinspect it to determine the cause of the stoppage andtake appropriate action.

MISFIRE AND COOK OFF

These malfunctions rarely happen when you fironly authorized and properly maintained ammunition inproperly maintained and operated weapons. Howeveryou must understand the nature of each kind omalfunction as well as the proper preventive andcorrective procedures in order to avoid personal injuryor damage to your rifle. The following procedures foremoving chambered cartridges associated with thesemalfunctions are given below:

1. MISFIRE. A misfire is a complete failure to fireNOT a delay in firing that may be caused by a faultyfiring mechanism or a faulty element in the propellingcharge explosive train.

2. COOK OFF. A cook off is a functioning of anyor all of the explosive components of a cartridgechambered in a hot weapon because of the heat from thcontinued firing of the weapon. When this happensattempt to remove the cartridge before 10 secondelapse. If a cartridge is chambered in a hot rifle and canneither be fired nor removed, keep your rifle trained ina safe direction. Then allow for a minimum of 15minutes to elapse before taking any further correctiveaction.

UNLOADING AND CLEARINGTHE RIFLE

To unload the rifle and make it safe, place theselector lever on the SAFE position (fig. 3-5); andremove the magazine by pressing the magazine catch

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Figure 3-23.Rear sight aperture.Figure 3-25.Front sight, M16A1.

Figure 3-24.Windage drum.

button (fig. 3-6). Pull the charging handle to the rear (fig.3-7), ejecting any round from the chamber. Inspect thechamber and receiver to ensure that it is clear. Releasingthe charging handle will allow the bolt to close. To keepthe bolt open, depress the lower portion of the bolt catchbefore returning the charging handle forward (fig. 3-8).The rifle is clear only when no case or round is in the

chamber, the magazine is out, the bolt carrier is to therear, and the selector lever is on the SAFE position.

SIGHTS OF THE RIFLE

The sights of the rifle are adjustable for bothwindage and elevation. Windage adjustments are made

on the rear sight; elevation adjustments are made on thefront sight.

The rear sight consists of two apertures, as shownin figure 3-23, and a windage drum with a spring-loadeddetent, as shown in figure 3-24. The aperture markedL is for use for ranges beyond 300 yards; and theunmarked aperture is for use for ranges from 0 to 300yards. Adjustments for windage are made by pressing inon the spring-loaded stud with either a pointedinstrument or the tip of a cartridge and rotating thewindage drum in the desired direction.

The front sight of the Ml6A1 rifle consists of arotating sight post with a spring-loaded stud (fig. 3-25).

Adjustments are made by using a pointed instrument ora tip of a cartridge. To raise or lower the front sight post,depress the spring-loaded stud and rotate the post in thedesired direction of change. A spring-loaded detentkeeps the post from being moved accidentally. To raisethe strike of the bullet, depress the detent and rotate thesight post clockwise.

Each click of elevation or windage adjustment willmove the strike of the bullet a specific distance at aspecific range. At a range of 100 yards, one click ofeither elevation or windage on the sights of the rifle willmove the strike of the bullet approximately 1 inch, or2.54 centimeters, up or down.

AMMUNITION FOR THE RIFLE

The 5.56-mm ammunition, as shown in figure 3-26,for the M16 rifle is classified as small arms ammunition

and is issued in the form of a complete round. Acomplete round (cartridge) consists of all thecomponents necessary to fire the weapon once; that is,

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Figure 3-26.5.56-mm ammunition for the M16A1.

projectile (bullet), propellant, and primer. Based uponthe type of projectile, the ammunition for use in the rifleis classified as follows:

1. The ball cartridge, M193, is for field use and hasno distinguishing marks. When shot from the rifle, itsmuzzle velocity is approximately 3,250 feet per second.It has a maximum range of 3,000 yards, but themaximum effective range is 500 yards.

2. The tracer cartridge, M196, is used to observefire and for incendiary effect. You can identify it by anorange- or a red-painted tip, depending on theammunition lot number. The use of only tracer

cartridges may cause deposits of the bullet-jackematerial (metal fouling) to form in the bore and riflinggrooves of the barrel. These tracer deposits are

extremely difficult to remove and are a potential safety

hazard. Therefore, when tracer ammunition is fired in

the M16 rifle, you should intermix it with ball

ammunition in a ratio of no less than four ball rounds to

each tracer round.

3. The dummy cartridge, M199, cannot be fired.You can identify it by six lengthwise ridges in the case.

The dummy cartridge is for use in training only.

4. The blank cartridge, M200, is for use in training

and ceremonial salutes. Its case mouth is closed with a

rosette crimp that has a violet tip. You can identify it by

the knurled band around the lower portion of the case.

The grooves help identify the types of cartridges by feel

when you cannot see the colored tip in the dark

CARING AND CLEANING OF THE

RIFLE AND AMMUNITION

A clean, properly lubricated and maintained rifle

loaded with clean ammunition will fire when needed. In

order to keep the rifle in good condition, it must have

care and cleaning. Under bad weather conditions, some

key parts may need care and cleaning several times a

day. The cleaning material, as shown in figure 3-27, used

for the care of the rifle, is carried in the rifle stock

Special attention must be given to the following areas:

Figure 3-27.M16A1 and M16A2E3 rifle cleaning material.

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WARNING

Ammunition for the M16A1 and theM16A2E3 are not interchangeable.


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Figure 3-28.Disassembly of the 20-round magazine.

1. BARREL BORE and CHAMBER. After

dipping a bore brush in the bore cleaner, brush from thechamber to the muzzle, using straight-through strokes.Do NOT reverse the brush while it is in the bore or itmay jam. A jammed brush is hard to remove, and it can

possibly damage the bore when you do this. After

dipping the brush in bore cleaner, clean the chamberwith the chamber brush. Replace the bore brush with aslotted cleaning patch tip, and push the dry patchesthrough the bore and chamber until they come out clean.

After cleaning the bore, lightly lubricate the bore andchamber to prevent corrosion and pitting, using therecommended lubricant on a patch. Lightly lubricate thelugs in the barrel extension.

2. BOLT CARRIER GROUP. Dip the bore brushin the bore cleaner, and clean the inside of the carrierkey. Dry with a pipe cleaner. Clean the locking lugs, bolt,

extractor ejector, and bolt rings with the bore brush.Remove any accumulation of dirt, carbon, or oil fromthe firing pin and the external and internal surfaces ofthe bolt and bolt carrier. Be sure to wipe all parts dry;then lubricate them with the recommended lubricant.

3. UPPER RECEIVER GROUP. With the bore

brush or a swab coated with bore cleaner, remove the

powder fouling collected on the group. Clean theprotruding gas tube inside and outside. After cleaning

these components, wipe them dry, and apply alight coat

of the recommended lubricant.

4. LOWER RECEIVER GROUP. With the borebrush or a swab coated with bore cleaner, remove dirt,carbon, and sand from the lower receiver group. Dry andapply alight coat of the recommended lubricant.

5 AMMUNITION MAGAZINES. After removingall cartridges from the magazine, depress the spring steellock band on the bottom of the magazine, using the noseof a cartridge (fig. 3-28, view 1). Slide the base until it

is free of the tabs, and remove it from the magazine body(fig. 3-28, view 2). Remove the magazine spring andfollower (fig. 3-28, view 3), but do not remove thefollower from the spring (fig. 3-28, views 4 and 5).Clean the exterior and interior of the magazine with a

dry rag or swab. Apply a light coat of the recommendedlubricant to the magazine spring only; otherwise, keep

the magazine dry. You assemble the magazine in reverseorder and test it to ensure that the follower is free tomove without binding. If the magazine and theammunition in it gets wet, be sure to wipe them dry as

soon as possible. When left wet, both the magazine andthe ammunition can become corroded and are dangerousto use. Remember not to use oil or grease on any

cartridge. If you do this, injurious abrasives can collect

in the weapon or produce excessive and hazardous

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Figure 3-29.45-caliber semiautomatic service pistol-(A) assembled and (B) sectional view in recoil position.

chamber pressures when the weapon is freed. Wheneverpractical, ammunition should be stored under cover.This applies particularly to tracer ammunition.

THE .45-CALIBER SERVICE PISTOL

The .45-caliber service pistol shown in figure 3-29is an individual weapon intended for use in close

combat. The .45-caliber pistol is a semiautomatic,recoil-operated, magazine-fed hand weapon. The pistolfires one round each time the trigger is squeezed. Thepistol can be carried in either a hip or shoulder holster.

The magazine holds seven cartridges. The forwardmovement of the slide strips the upper cartridge fromthe magazine into the chamber. After the last cartridgefrom the magazine has been fired, the slide remains inthe rear.

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Only your ability to change magazines, aim, and

squeeze the trigger rapidly limits the rate of fire of the

.45-caliber service pistol.

The pistol is 8 5/8 inches in length and weighs 3

pounds frilly loaded, with a maximum range of 1,500

yards, and a maximum effective range of 50 yards. It

uses different kinds of .45-caliber ammunition. (These

will be discussed later under ammunition.)

As a Seabee, you are expected to keep this weapon

in good working condition. To ensure that it will

function correctly, you must disassemble it to inspect

and clean the parts. Procedures for general disassembly

(field-stripping), assembly, functioning, loading, firing

unloading, malfunctions, stoppages, immediate action,

and the care and cleaning of the service pistol will be

covered in the following sections.


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Figure 3-30.-Magazine removal and chamber inspection for aright-handed firer.

Figure 3-31.Recoil spring plug removal from the recoil spring.

GENERAL DISASSEMBLY

(FIELD-STRIPPING)

General disassembly is the disassembly necessaryfor normal care and cleaning. To field-strip the service

pistol, perform the steps in the following order:

1. Hold the pistol in the raised pistol position, press

the magazine catch, and remove the magazine, as shown

Figure 3-32.Sllide stop removal.

Figure 3-33.Separating the receiver from the slide by pullingthe receiver rearward.

in figure 3-30, for a right-handed firer. The left-handed

firer should reverse hands for this procedure. Pull the

slide to the rear and inspect the chamber to see that theweapon is clear. Press down on the slide stop and allow

the slide to move forward. Press the thumb safety lock

upward to the SAFE position.

2. Press down on the recoil spring plug and turn the

barrel bushing one-fourth turn clockwise, as shown in

figure 3-31. Allow the recoil spring to expand slowly,

under control, to prevent injury or loss of the part andremove the plug. Turn the recoil spring plug

counterclockwise and remove it. Leave the recoil spring

in place.

3. Press the thumb safety lock downward to theFIRE position. Push the slide to the rear until the

disassembly notch, as shown in figure 3-32, is alignedwith the rear projection on the slide stop. Press the

protruding end of tie slide stop, and then pull out the

slide stop.

4. Pull the receiver rearward to separate it from the

slide, as shown in figure 3-33.

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Figure 3-34.Recoil spring guide and recoil spring removal.

Figure 3-35.Barrel bushing removal from the slide.

Figure 3-36.Barrel removal from the slide.

5. Remove the recoil spring guide and recoilspring, as shown in figure 3-34. Separate the two partswith a twisting action.

6. Remove the barrel bushing by turning itcounterclockwise, as shown in figure 3-35, and pullingit from the slide.

7. Push the barrel link forward and remove thebarrel from the front end of the slide, as shown in figure3-36. This completes the field-stripping. Observe figure

3-37. It shows the parts of the pistol in the order of thefield-stripping just completed.

ASSEMBLY

To assemble the pistol after the field-stripping

procedure, replace the parts in the reverse order of thedisassembly.

Figure 3-37.Parts of the pistol in order of field-stripping.

1. BARREL. Push the barrel link forward on the

barrel and replace the barrel, chamber end first, in the

slide. (See fig. 3-36.)

2. BARREL BUSHING. Place the barrel bushing

on the muzzle end of the barrel, push it into the slide,

and turn it clockwise. (See fig. 3-35.)

3. RECOIL SPRING AND RECOIL SPRING

GUIDE. Insert the recoil spring guide into the tightest

end of the recoil spring. Replace these parts in the slide.

(See fig. 3-34.) Be sure the concave cut on the recoil

spring guide collar is properly seated in the barrel. Push

the barrel, recoil spring, and recoil spring guide frilly

forward in the slide, ensuring that the barrel link is

positioned forward and rests against the hole in the

recoil spring guide. (See fig. 3-33.)

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4. ASSEMBLING THE RECEIVER GROUP TO

THE SLIDE GROUP. Hold the slide with the sights

down in the palm of one hand. Invert the receiver (the

safety lock must be in the FIRE position) and engage the

guide rails of the receiver in the grooves of the slide.

(See fig. 3-33.) Push the receiver all the way forward

on the slide with a quick motion.

5. SLIDE STOP. Hold the pistol as shown in figure

3-33. Look through the slide stop pinhole in the receiverfor alignment of this hole with the hole in the barrel link

If the holes are not aligned, move the muzzle end of the

barrel forward or rearward to align them. Insert the slide

stop pin into the holes. Move the slide forward until the

disassembly notch is over the square hole in the left side

of the receiver. (See fig. 3-32.) Press the slide stop up

and in to seat it fully. In some cases, a punch may be

required to depress the slide stop plunger in order to seat

the slide stop fully.

6. RECOIL SPRING PLUG. Push the slide frilly

forward on the receiver and press the thumb safety lockupward to the SAFE position. Place the recoil spring

plug on the recoil spring. Turn the recoil spring plug

clockwise to lock the plug to the recoil spring. Holding

the pistol, as shown in figure 3-31, insert the recoil

spring and push downward on the recoil spring plug,

compressing the spring until the plug is inside of the

slide. Turn the barrel bushing counterclockwise to lock

the recoil spring plug in place. Press the safety lock

downward to the FIRE position and squeeze the trigger.

7. MAGAZINE. Insert the magazine into the

magazine recess of the pistol until it is fully seated andheld by the magazine catch. (See fig. 3-30.) This

completes the pistol assembly.

FUNCTIONING

By disassembling and assembling the pistol, you

become familiar with the parts. Understanding how the

pistol functions will help you keep the weapon in

operating condition and reduce stoppages that may

occur during firing.

Each time a cartridge is fired, the parts inside thepistol (fig. 3-29) function in a given order. This is known

as the cycle of operation (functioning).

The cycle of operation of the pistol is divided into

eight basic steps; however, more than one step may be

occurring at the same time. The following steps occur

in the order listed below:

1. FEEDINGplacing a cartridge in the receiver,approximately in back of the barrel ready forcambering

2. CHAMBERINGmoving the cartridge from themagazine into the chamber

3. LOCKINGsealing the cartridge in the chamberand blocking the breech end of the barrel

4. FIRINGigniting the primer and firing the

cartridge

5. UNLOCKINGunsealing the breech end of thebarrel

6. EXTRACTINGremoving the cartridge casefrom the chamber

7. EJECTINGremoving the cartridge case fromthe weapon

8. COCKINGreturning the firing mechanism tothe cocked position ready to fire another cartridge

SAFETY DEVICES

The pistol has three safety devices: the safety lockthe grip safety, and the half-cock notch on the hammer.The safeties must be tested often, and always before thepistol is fired. The disconnector is not considered apositive safety like the three safeties listed above. Thedisconnector is not a positive safety because it isdesigned for use to fire the pistol on semiautomatic fireand cannot be controlled by the firer.

OPERATIONAL SAFETY CHECKS

WARNING

Before making the following test, inspectthe pistol to ensure that the magazine isremoved and the chamber is empty.

SAFETY LOCK. Cock the hammer and press thesafety lock up into the SAFE position. Grasp the stock

so that the grip safety is depressed and squeeze thetrigger three or four times. If the hammer falls, the safety

lock is not safe; and it must be replaced.GRIP SAFETY. Cock the hammer, being careful not

to depress the grip safety, and squeeze the trigger threeor four times. If the hammer falls, the grip safety or searspring must be replaced.

HALF-COCK NOTCH. Pull the hammer rearwarduntil the sear engages the half-cock notch and squeeze

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the trigger. If the hammer falls, the hammer or sear mustbe replaced.

LOADING

Draw the pistol from the holster and hold it at theraised pistol position. Insert a magazine loaded withfrom one to seven rounds of ammunition. Grasp the slide

with the left hand, thumb on the right side of the slide.Pull the slide fully to the rear, release, and press thesafety lock up to the SAFE position with the leftforefinger. Left-handed personnel should reverse thehand positions for this procedure.

FIRING

To fire the pistol right handed, press the safety lockdown to the FIRE position with the left thumb to preventdisturbing the firing grip of the right hand. Left-handedSeabees should reverse the above thumb and hand

directions to complete this procedure. Obtain the correctsight alignment and sight picture and squeeze the trigger.To fire successive shots, you must release the trigger and

squeeze again. When the last cartridge from themagazine has been fired, the slide returns to the rear.

UNLOADING

To unload the pistol, hold it at the raised pistol

position. Press the magazine catch and remove themagazine. If the slide is in the forward position, pull theslide to the rear, and push the slide stop up. Inspect the

chamber to ensure that the pistol is clear. Press the slidestop down, allowing the slide to go forward. Keep thepistol at the raised pistol position, squeeze the trigger,and then holster the weapon.

MALFUNCTIONS

A malfunction is a future of the weapon to functionsatisfactorily. Malfunctions are classified as defects inthe weapon that normally do not cause a break in thecycle of operation. You may discover a malfunction, forexample, when the grip safety does not block the trigger

or when the slide does not remain to the rear after thelast round is fired.

STOPPAGES

A stoppage is any unintentional interruption in thecycle of operation. If the. pistol stops firing through nofault of yours or the weapon does not fire when youattempt to fire it, then a stoppage has occurred.

Stoppages are classified as a malfunction of one ofthe eight steps in the cycle of operation given in theprevious section. Stoppages are usually the result ofworn parts or improper care of the weapon.

IMMEDIATE ACTION

Immediate action is the prompt action you take to

reduce a stoppage. The procedure for immediate actionshould bean instinct when you are armed with the pistol.If a stoppage occurs, apply immediate action

automatically in an effort to reduce the stoppage withoutattempting to discover the cause at that time.

If the slide is fully forward, the hammer falls butthe pistol fails to fire, apply immediate action asfollows:

1. Manually cock the hammer without opening the

chamber and make one additional attempt to fire. If thepistol still fails to fire, wait 10 seconds; then come to the

raised pistol position. Grasp the slide with the thumb andfirst finger of the left hand, keeping the thumb on theright side of the slide. Left-handed shooters shouldreverse hand and thumb directions for this procedure.Rapidly pull the slide rearward to its full extent. Rotatethe pistol to the right allowing the unfired round to dropout, release the slide, and allow it to return to the forwardposition, cambering anew cartridge.

CAUTION

Keep the pistol pointed down range duringthis operation.

2. Aim and attempt to fire.

If the slide is not fully forward, apply immediateaction as follows: remove the trigger finger from thetrigger guard; and with the nonfiring hand, attempt topush the slide fully forward.

If the slide will not move forward, proceed asfollows:

1. Bring the weapon to the raised pistol position.2. Remove the magazine.

3. Grasp the slide with the nonfiring hand, pull theslide to the rear, and lock it with the slide stop.

4.

5.

6.

Inspect the chamber. Remove any obstructions

Insert another loaded magazine into the pistol.

Release the slide.

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7. Aim and attempt to fire.

CARING AND CLEANING THE PISTOL

Care and cleaning the pistol includes dailypreventive maintenance, which is the ordinary care ofthe pistol required to preserve its condition andappearance when no firing is done. Cleaning beforefiring ensures that the pistol is safe to fire and is properly

lubricated for efficient operation. Cleaning after firingensures that all corrosion-inducing agents deposited inthe bore and chamber of the pistol are completelyremoved.

Daily Preventive Maintenance

Damp air and sweaty hands are great promoters ofrust. You should clean your pistol and protect it with therecommended oil after every firing or handling. Youshould inspect the pistol each day and clean it ifnecessary.

To clean the pistol, rub it with a rag lightly saturatedwith oil; then rub it with a dry cloth. Clean the bore witha swab saturated with oil, and then, with a dry swab.Dust out all crevices with a small, clean brush.

To protect the pistol after cleaning it, cover all the

surfaces, including the bore and chamber, with a lightcoat of lubricating, preservative oil.

After cleaning and oiling the pistol, place it back inyour holster or the pistol rack Do not place a cover, suchas canvas, over the pistol because it collects moisture

that rusts the metal.

Care and Cleaning before Firing

Before the pistol is fired, you should clean and drythe bore and chamber and exterior parts of the receiverof the pistol. You should lubricate the guide rails on thereceiver and the grooves on the slide with oil. Place alight coat of oil on all other interior metal parts EXCEPTthose that come in contact with the ammunition. Excessoil should be removed from the grips and the grip areaof the receiver to aid you in griping the weapon.

Care and Cleaning after Firing

You must clean the pistol as soon as possible on theday of firing and daily for the next 3 days, or longer ifnecessary. Do this in the following manner:

1. Disassemble the pistol.

2. Clean all parts with a rag lightly saturated withoil. Dry all parts and apply alight coat of oil.

3. Clean the bore and chamber as follows:

a. Wet a swab with rifle bore cleaner and run itback and forth through the bore several times.

b. Attach the pistol bore brush to the cleaningrod and run it through the bore and chamber severaltimes.

c. Run dry swabs through the bore andchamber until they are clean.

d. Inspect the bore for cleanliness. If it is notfree of all residue, repeat the cleaning process.

e. When the bore and chamber are clean, coatthem with rifle bore cleaner and leave it on overnight.

f. Assemble the pistol.

g. Apply a light coat of oil to the exteriorsurfaces of the pistol.

h. After the third daily cleaning, if the bore andchamber are clean, remove the rifle bore cleaner.Replace the bore cleaner with alight coat of lubricating,preservative oil.

AMMUNITION

As a Seabee armed with the .45-caliber pistol, youmust be familiar with the types of ammunition for yourpistol and be able to identity each type of ammunition.

A pistol cartridge is a complete assembly consisting

of all the components necessary to fire the weapon once;that is, the cartridge case, bullet, propellant powder, andprimer.

The types, uses, and means of identification of theammunition used in the .45-caliber pistol are thefollowing:

1. Ball cartridge, M1911, is for use against

personnel and light material targets. The ball roundconsists of a metal jacket surrounding a lead alloy core.The bullet tip is unpainted.

2. Blank cartridge, M9, is used to simulate fire andfor salutes. This cartridge can be fired single shot onlyin the pistol. You can identify it by the absence of a bulletand by its tapered mouth.

3. Dummy cartridge, M1921, is used for trainingpersonnel in the operation of loading and unloading thepistol and for testing weapons. It is used also inmarksmanship training by mixing it with live

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ammunition during instruction practice firing. You can

identify this cartridge by the empty primer pocket and

the two holes in the cartridge case.

4. Tracer cartridge, M26, is used for observation of

fire. Secondary uses are for incendiary effect and for

signaling. The cartridge consists of three parts: (1) a

copper-plated, or guiding metal-clad, steel jacket; (2) a

slug of lead, hardened with antimony (a chemical

hardening element); and (3) a tracer mixture in the rear.

portion of the jacket. For identification, the bullet is

painted red for a distance of approximately

three-sixteenths of an inch from the tip.

Small arms ammunition is generally safe to handle.

However, you must protect the ammunition you are

using from mud, sand, dirt, and water. Keep it clean, dry,

and ready for use.

Do NOT oil or polish pistol cartridges.

Do NOT expose the ammunition to direct sunlightfor any length of time. If the powder is heated, excessive

pressure develops when the weapon is fired. This

condition affects the accuracy and the operation of the

weapon.

Do NOT attempt to fire cartridges that have dents,

scratches, loose bullets, or corroded cases. If any

cartridges are defective, turn them in to your supply

point. Do not throwaway or attempt to destroy defective

ammunition.

Do NOT strike the primer of a cartridge; it mayignite and cause injury.

MARKSMANSHIP

The purpose of marksmanship training is to provide

proper information and instruction so you can become

a safe and effective shooter.

Good shooting, whether on the firing range or in

combat, depends upon the application of basic

marksmanship principles. These principles areinterrelated and must be practiced each time you fire a

shot so you achieve effective results.

There are two parts to this section. The first part

describes the techniques of firing a rifle and a pistol. The

second part deals with the principles and practices of

directing and controlling the combined fire power of

rifles and machine guns.

Figure 3-38.Proper sight alignment.

FIRING TECHNIQUESRIFLE

The most important factors involved in correct

sighting and aiming are proper sight alignment and a

correct aiming point. Together they make up the sight

picture.

Sight Alignment

Sight alignment is the art of looking through the rear

sight aperture, focusing the eye on the front sight post

(or blade), and centering the front sight post exactly in

the rear sight aperture both vertically and horizontally.

The body of the front sight post, or blade, is centered

vertically. The tip of the front sight post, or blade, is

centered horizontally within the rear sight aperture (fig.

3-38).

REAR SIGHT. In each firing position (prone,

standing, kneeling, and sitting), the aiming eye is at a

slightly different distance from the rear sight. This

distance, refereed to as eye relief, causes the opening

(peep) of the rear sight to appear larger or smaller,

depending on the firing position. Regardless of the

apparent size of the rear sight opening, the front sight

must be aligned in the center of the opening. It is

important to keep your eye the same distance from the

peep sight in any particular firing position. To ensure

this distance is always the same, you must hold the riflein the same exact location for each shot. This location is

commonly called the SPOT WELD, or anchor. There are

several tricks shooters use to help them maintain this

distance. One is to place a small piece of tape on the

stock of the rifle where it touches the cheek. In this

manner, the shooters can feel whether their cheek has

the proper eye relief.

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Figure 3-39.6 oclock sight picture held on A target at a rangeof 200 yards.

Figure 3-40.6 oclock sight picture held on D target at a rangeof 200 yards.

FRONT SIGHT. The friont sight always appears to be

the same size. However, depending on the distance youreye is from the rear sight, more or less of the front sightmay be visible in the sight picture. The front sight, notthe target, is the point of focus for the eye; and as such,it will be sharp and distinct in outline. For this reason,keep the front sight square, leveled, and blackened.

AIMING POINT. The aiming point is that point

on the target upon which the sights of the weapon arebrought to bear. The correct aiming point is at 6 oclock;that is, the bottom of the bulls-eye of a type A target(fig. 3-39) or the silhouette of a type D target (fig.3-40). Any location on the target face is always givenrelative to a similar position on a clockface regardlessof the target shape. Therefore, a vertical line in the exactcenter of the target would be described as running from12 oclock (top) to 6 oclock (bottom).

SIGHT PICTURE. You obtain the correct sight

picture by aligning the rear sight, the front sight, and the

bull s-eye (figs. 3-39 and 3-40). Each of these threeelements affects the sight picture. As you can see fromfigure 3-41, any error in sight alignment will increase asthe range increases. An error in the aiming point remainsconstant as the range increases. Therefore, of the two,

sight alignment is the most important.

At close ranges, the bulls-eye or silhouette willappear larger in relation to the front sight, than it will atlonger ranges. This means that the sight picture will vary

Figure 3-41.Error in sight alignment increases as range increases.

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Figure 3-42.Variation in sight picture for each

range of fire.

not only from one firing position to another but also

from one firing line to another (fig. 3-42).

TRAINING. You will receive training in

aiming along with the position and trigger squeeze

before actually firing on the rifle range. You do this

by aiming at a series of small bulls-eyes at least 20

feet away on a dry-firing range; this training is

known as snapping in.

BLACKENING SIGHTS. You should

blacken the sights during sighting and aiming

exercises to help eliminate light reflection or glare.Blacken all sights, both front and rear, on the base of

the receiver and the top of the barrel. The usual way

of blackening a sight is by means of a smudge pot,

carbide lamp, oily patch, candle, cigarette lighter, or

ordinary match. Be sure to remove all oil from the

sight before blackening it.

Shooting Positions

A correct shooting position is essential to obtain

the best results in rifle shooting. The better the

position, the easier it is to hold the rifle and squeeze

the trigger while the sights are properly aligned onthe target. However, no degree of excellence in the

position will compensate for lack of practice. You

may have difficulty in assuming a connect position

until sufficient practice has limbered up you

muscles. Once your muscles are limber, you will find

the positions both comfortable and steady.

The Seabee qualification course requires you to

learn and use four standard positions: prone

standing, kneeling, and sitting. These positions have

been selected as a result of experience and have been

found to produce excellent results with men and

women of all physical types.

Once you master the correct positions, you mus

combine sighting and aiming with your practice

Learn to get into the correct position and align the

sights without moving the rifle. If the target is no

properly aligned with the sights, you must move you

body instead of the rifle until you obtain the proper

sight picture.

PRONE POSITION. The prone position (fig

3-43) is a steady position that is easy to assume andexcellent for initial training. In the field, the position

presents a low silhouette and is readily adaptable to

the use of cover and support. However, observation

from this position is difficult.

Figure 3-43.Prone position.

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Figure 3-44.Standing position.

Figure 3-45.Kneeling position.

STANDING (OFF-HAND) POSITION. The

standing position (fig. 3-44) is used to engage surprise

targets that appear at close ranges. Normally, you use

Figure 3-46.Sitting position.

this position when engaging targets less than 100 ya

in range and when you are constantly firing and movi

KNEELING POSITION. The kneeling posi

(fig. 3-45) is a natural position that can be assumquickly. It is suitable for use on level ground or

ground that slopes upward

SITTING POSITION. There are three variati

of the sitting position: open leg, cross leg, and cr

ankle. The position used depends entirely on the shoo

For steadiness, the open-leg position (fig. 3-46)

second only to the prone position. This position

especially suited for use on ground that slo

downward. The other two alternate sitting positions

the cross-legged position (fig. 3-47) and the cross-ank

position (fig. 3-48).

Trigger Control

The most important single factor in marksmans

is trigger control. Everything about your position

aim may be perfect; but if you do not squeeze the trig

properly, your shot will not go where you aimed it.

The prime consideration in trigger control is that

trigger must be squeezed smoothly, gradually,

evenly straight to the rear. Any sideward press

however slight, applied to the trigger during its rearwmovement will likely result in a wide shot. Simila

upward or downward pressure on the trigger will re

in high or low shots.

The trigger hand must grasp the stock or pistol g

firmly, but without strain, so the trigger finger will h

proper support in overcoming the trigger weight.

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Figure 3-47.Cross-legged position.

Figure 3-48.Cross-ankled position.

unnatural, straining grasp will cause excessive

muscular tension in the hand, resulting in a tremor,

that will also be transmitted to the weapon.

The index finger should make contact with the

trigger at the place that will best produce a movement

straight to the rear. This is usually between the first

joint and the tip. The trigger (index) finger must not

touch the receiver or rifle.

Once the sights are lined up, apply pressure on

the trigger and gradually increase it until the hammerreleases and the shot fires. If at any time during this

process the sights drift off the target, interrupt the

trigger squeeze, but maintain the pressure. When the

sight picture is again correct, continue the squeeze

until you fire the shot.

When you fire from the standing position,

coordination of trigger squeeze and proper aim is

critical. The shooter must start and continue his or her

squeeze only when the front sight is momentarily a

rest or is slowly moving in the smallest area of the

bulls-eye. An inexperienced shooter usually tends to

snap shoot in this position; that is, he or she

attempts to complete the trigger action instantly as

the front sight moves across the aiming point. This

invariably results in jerking the rifle and producing a

wild shot.

Squeezing the trigger correctly is not as easy as imay appear; the technique must be fully mastered To

assist you in remembering the correct technique, the

acronym, BRASS, was developed.

BBREATH. Proper breathing is essential. I

will help you relax, steady your aim, and clear your

vision. First, take a normal breath; then release part of

it (enough to be comfortable); and hold the

remainder. Do not hold your breath for more than 10

seconds before shooting. This may tense your

muscles and blur your vision. If you do not shoo

during this breathing period, take another normabreath and repeat the procedure.

RRELAX. You must relax. The more relaxed

you are the better your shot will be.

AAIM. Concentrate on the proper sigh

alignment of the correct sight picture. Focus your eye

on the front sight post (blade).

S-SLACK. Some rifles have a certain amount o

slack in the trigger. Take up this slack before starting

your squeeze to the rear to fire. The M16 trigger slack

is insignificant, and this step is generally omitted

when firing that weapon. Knowing your weapon isimportant here.

SSQUEEZE. Squeeze the trigger as previously

described. If you squeeze it properly, you will no

know when the round will fire. This will preven

flinching, caused by anticipation of the shock, or

recoil, from the exploding cartridge.

Calling Your Shot

One of the best ways of developing good

shooting habits is to learn to call your shot. To dothis, you must notice exactly where you aim the

sights at the instant you fire the shot and call ou

immediately where you think the bullet will hit. This

takes a lot of concentration. Any shooter who canno

call his or her shot correctly is either blinking or

flinching. Shots are called by the clock method. An

example would be bulls-eye at 4 oclock; that is

the shot hit the lower right portion of the bulls-eye.

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Figure 3-49.4 oclock wind.

Figure 3-50.Range flag wind reading.

Wind and Wind Effect

One of the most important influences on rifleshooting is wind. Wind affects shooting in two principal

ways: it literally blows the bullet off course; and it

buffets the shooter, making proper aiming difficult.

The effect of the bullet in flight progressively

increases as range increases. A wind that will have little

or no effect on a bullet at 200 yards will have some effect

on one at 300 yards. The effect of the wind on the bullet

in flight is compensated for by applying proper windage

to the sights.

The effect of the wind on the body of the shooter

depends on the relative stability of the various shooting

Figure 3-51.Estimating wind velocity.

positions. Wind that has no effect on the prone shootermight have some effect on the sitting shooter, a greatereffect on the kneeling shooter, and a definite adverseeffect on the standing shooter. The effect of the wind onyour body can be decreased through the development ofthe best possible shooting positions.

Wind Direction and Force

The direction of wind is explained by reference tothe face of a clock The firing line is thought of as thecenter of a big clockface with 12 oclock toward thetarget butts and 6 oclock to the rear. Wind blowing fromthe right rear is a 4 oclock wind (fig. 3-49).

Wind Reading Aids

Wind direction and force can be quickly determinedby observing the range flags. Figures 3-50 and 3-51 giveexamples using the range flag. If no flag is visible, usethe following observations as a guide in determiningwind velocities:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Smoke drifts slightlyless than 2 mph wind

Wind can be felt lightly3 to 5 mph wind

Tree leaves move constantly5 to 8 mph wind

Wind raises dust and loose paper8 to 12 mphwind

Small trees sway12 to 15 mph wind

FIRING TECHNIQUESPISTOL

Good pistol shooting, like rifle shooting, depends

upon your ability to master and apply certain basicmarksmanship principles. You must practice theseprinciplesaiming, position, and trigger squeezeoften.

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Figure 3-52.Correct sight alignment and sight picture.

Apply these fundamentals of marksmanship! If your

life ever depends on how well and accurately you shoot

the pistol, you can be the one who walks away alive.

Aiming the Pistol

Aiming the pistol consists of combining propersight alignment with the correct aiming point to obtain a

correct sight picture.

SIGHT ALIGNMENT. Sight alignment is best

defined as placing the front and rear sights into correct

alignment with the eye. For a correct sight alignment,

you must center the front sight in the rear sight, bringing

the top of the front sight exactly level with the top of the

rear sight (fig. 3-52). Connect sight alignment is

essential for accuracy. It is particularly important with

the pistol because of the short sight radius (about 6 1/2

inches). For example, if a 1/10-inch error is made inaligning the front sight in the rear sight, the bullet will

miss the point of aim by almost 15 inches at 25 yards of

range.

AIMING POINT. The correct aiming point, when

you fire at a bulls-eye target at 25 yards, is a 6 oclock

sight picture. At 15 yards, bring the aiming point well up

into the black. When you fire at an E type of silhouette

target, the aiming point is in the center of the target.

CORRECT SIGHT PICTURE. A sight picture is

the pattern of the pistol sights in relation to the target as you

aim the pistol. A correct sight picture combines correctsight alignment and correct aiming point (fig. 3-52).

When you are aiming, your eye cannot focus

simultaneously on three objects (rear sight, front sight,

and bulls-eye) at different ranges. Therefore, the last

focus of the eye should always be on the front sight. You

will see the front and rear sights sharp and clear, but the

bulls-eye will appear to be a bit hazy. If sight alignment

Figure 3-53.Standing position (pistol).

is correct, the bullet will strike the bulls-eye, even if

sight picture is partially off center but still touches

bulls-eye. Since it is physically impossible to hold

weapon perfectly still, you must learn to apply trig

squeeze and to maintain correct sight alignment wh

the weapon is moving around the bulls-eye. Tmovement of the pistol is referred to as the wob

area. You must accept this wobble area, or moveme

and endeavor to keep it to a minimum.

Position

To position yourself properly for firing the pis

you need to know how to grip the pistol correctly a

how to position your body in relation to the target. O

the standing position will be covered in this secti

because it is the one used in qualification. However, pistol can also be fired accurately from the kneeli

crouch, and prone positions. The pistol may be gripp

with either a one-hand grip or a two-hand grip.

STANDING POSITION ONE-HAND GRIP.

assume the standing position using the one-hand g

(fig. 3-53), face the target squarely and then execute a

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Figure 3-54.Gripping the pistol (one hand).

exaggerated half left face (about 50 degrees). Spread

your feet about shoulder width apart until you stand

comfortably. Your legs should be straight, but not stiff,

and your hips should be level. Extend the index finger

of your shooting hand and point it at the target. Adjustyour stance until your finger points naturally, without

muscle tension, at the center of the target. Pick the

pistol up with your other hand and place it in your

shooting hand. The mainspring housing should rest

firmly in your palm with the grip safety pressed into

the Y, formed between the thumb and forefinger. Hold

your hand as high as possible on the receiver without

squeezing the flesh between the hammer and grip

safety.

Grip the receiver firmly with the hand and fingers.

Wrap the three lower fingers around the receiver, andplace the trigger finger inside the trigger guard. Hold

your thumb up and along the side of the pistol with

enough pressure to steady the pistol and to equalize

any pressure from the other side by the palm and

forefinger (fig. 3-54). Once a firm grip is obtained,

maintaining the same degree of firmness throughout

firing is important. A change in your grip will change

the location of the shot group on the target. A tight grip

tends to cause the bullet to strike low and a loose grip

to strike high. Keep your trigger finger away from the

receiver.With a proper grip on the pistol, the muscles of

your arm should be firm, but not rigid. Your arm

should be straight with your wrist and elbow locked.

This will prevent excessive up-and-down movement of

the weapon. When the weapon is fired, the recoil will

be absorbed through the arm to the shoulder. If you are

in the correct position, the pistol will return to

approximately the same sight picture after each shot.

Figure 3-55.Standing position (pistol), two-handed grip

STANDING POSITION TWO-HANDE

GRIP. In this position (fig. 3-55), you face t

target squarely with your feet placed comfortably abo

shoulder width apart. Keep your legs straight witho

stiffness and your hips level and slightly forwar

Relax the muscles of your diaphragm, and make

effort to hold in your abdomen.

Grasp the pistol in the same manner as if you we

firing one-handed. Next, with your free hand extend

forward, palm up, place the butt of the weapon in

your extended palm. Place the little finger of yo

shooting hand between the index and middle finger

your other hand. The thumb of your free hand

straight up alongside the pistol grip with the thumb

your shooting hand locked over the top of the oth

thumb. Bring the last three fingers of your other han

up and over the back of your shooting hand, lockin

the weapon firmly in both hands (fig. 3-56). Bring t

weapon onto the center of the target by shifting yo

feet.

MISCELLANEOUS. In both the one-hand

and two-handed positions, you position your head so th

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Figure 3-56.Two-handed grip.

you are looking straight out through your shooting

eye. Keep your shooting arm fully extended.

In the one-handed position, the shoulder of your

shooting hand should be slightly raised. Turn your

head in order to see the target through the sights. Theease with which your head can be turned is another

determining factor in how far you must turn to the

right or left. There should be no strain on the neck

muscles with your head held upright. The whole

position, with the exception of your shooting arm, is

one which can be maintained with the least muscular

effort. Your body is balanced rather than held in

position. The muscles of your shooting arm and

shoulder should be tightened somewhat to sustain the

weight of the pistol and to maintain a correct grip.

Excessive tightening of the muscles of your shooting

arm and hand should be avoided. The tension in the

muscles of your shooting arm and hand should be

maintained after the hammer falls. This will assist in

getting off your second shot quicker.

Because of the differences in the body structure

of individuals, the standing position will vary

slightly. But regardless, your position should be

relaxed and comfortable. The pistol should point at

the center of the target or you will be tense while

firing. If you are tense, there will be excessive muzzle

movement.

Trigger Squeeze

Poor shooting is most often caused by disturbing

your aim as the bullet is leaving the barrel. This is

usually the result of jerking the trigger, or flinching.

The trigger does not have to be jerked violently to

spoil your aim; even a slight off-center pressure of

your finger while squeezing the trigger is enough to

move the strike of the bullet several inches

FLINCHING is a subconscious reflex caused by

anticipating the recoil from firing. JERKING results

from attempting to fire the pistol at the precise time

that you align the sights with the target. Both

flinching and jerking will cause the bullet to strike

the lower left section of the target. An attempt to

correct flinching and jerking by tightening the large

muscle in the heel of the hand may cause heelingHEELING causes the bullet to strike the target high

and to the right. You can correct all these shooting

errors by understanding and using the correct trigger

squeeze. Improper trigger squeeze will cause more

misses on the target than any other single step of

preparatory marksmanship training.

You obtain correct trigger squeeze by applying a

uniformly increasing pressure on the trigger straigh

to the rear without disturbing the sight alignmen

until the pistol fires. The trigger slack, or free play, is

taken up first, and the correct squeeze continues

steadily until the hammer falls. If the trigger is

squeezed properly, you will not know when the

hammer will fall. This is the best way to preven

jerking, flinching, and heeling.

To assist you in squeezing the trigger properly

use the acronym BRASS as you did with the rifle

You must also learn to call your shots. If you canno

call your shots correctly, you are not concentrating

properly on sight alignment and trigger squeeze.

TECHNIQUE OF FIRE

The technique of fire is the application and

control of the combined fire of a fire unit. The rest o

this chapter concerns the technique of fire for rifle

and machine gun units.

FIRE CHARACTERISTICS

The fire of rifles and machine guns has the

following characteristics: trajectory, danger space

burst of fire, dispersion, shot patterns, and beaten

zone.

The TRAJECTORY is the curved path of the

bullet in its flight through the air. Trajectory i

influenced by three forces: velocity of the

projectile, gravity, and air resistance. The farther

the bullet travels, the greater the curvature

of its path becomes. The highest point on the

trajectory (called the maximum ordinate) is a point a

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Figure 3-57.Projector of 7.62-mm ammunition showing maximum ordinate (H) of trajectory.

Figure 3-58.Danger space at 1,000-yard range.

Figure 3-59.Cone of dispersion, or cone of fire.

approximately two-thirds of the range from the weapon

to the target (fig. 3-57).

DANGER SPACE is the area between the weapon

and the point of impact in which the bullet does not rise

above the average height of a man (presumed to be 68

inches). At ranges up to 750 yards, a rifle bullet fired

over level or uniformly sloping ground does not rise

above this height; therefore, for such ranges, the danger

space is continuous. At ranges greater than 750 yards, aportion of the trajectory is above this height; therefore,

the danger space is not continuous but exists for a

variable distance in front of the muzzle and in front of

the point of impact. In the latter case, the danger space

begins again when the bullet comes within 68 inches of

the ground. The length of the two danger space zones is

dependent upon the range, as shown in figure 3-58.

A number of shots fired automatically with a single

pressure on the trigger is called a BURST OF FIRE. For

normal ground targets, the number of rounds in a burst

is usually from four to ten.

When several bullets are fired from a rifle or

machine gun held in a fixed position, there is a slight

variation in the trajectories. The causes of these

differences are in the powder charge, the weight of the

bullet, atmospheric and wind conditions, and vibration

of the weapon. These variations are known asDISPERSION. The several dispersions, plotted in

profile, form a cone with its apex to the muzzle of theweapon; this is known as the cone of dispersion, or the

cone of fire (fig. 3-59).

The impact pattern of the cone of dispersion on a

vertical target (which would be oval in shape) is called

the VERTICAL SHOT PATTERN. (See fig. 3-60.) The

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Figure 3-61.Horizontal shot patterns at various ranges.

Figure 3-62.Effect of ground slopes on beaten zone.

impact pattern on a horizontal target, which would be along, narrow ellipse, is known as the HORIZONTALSHOT PATTERN or BEATEN ZONE. (See fig. 3-61.)

The BEATEN ZONE is the area of the ground the

bullets strike. The size and shape of the beaten zonedepend upon the range and slope of the ground, as shownin figure 3-62.

CLASSES OF FIRE

Fire is classified with respect to the target, theground, and the gun. (See figs. 3-63 through 3-65.)

Figure 3-63.Fire in respect to the target.

Fire with respect to the target may be FRONTAL

(delivered perpendicular to the enemy front),

FLANKING (delivered perpendicular to the enemyflank), or ENFILADE (delivered so the long axis of the

beaten zone corresponds with the long axis of the target).ENFILADE fire may be either frontal or flanking,

depending on the direction of the long axis of the target.Since it makes maximum use of the beaten zone inrelation to the shape of the target, enfilade fire is the mosteffective. Fire delivered from a direction that is neitherfrontal nor flanking is called OBLIQUE fire.

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Figure 3-60.Vertical shot pattern at various ranges.


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Figure 3-64.Fire in respect to the ground.

Figure 3-65.Fire in respect to the gun.

Fire with respect to the ground can be classified as

grazing, plunging, or overhead.

GRAZING fire has a trajectory not higher than

68 inches above the ground. Grazing fire can exist for

750 yards over level or uniformly sloping ground.

PLUNGING fire strikes the ground from above

at a considerable angle. The danger space of plunging

fire is practically limited to the beaten zone.

OVERHEAD fire is delivered over the heads offriendly troops. It must usually be high trajectory,plunging fire.

Fire with respect to the machine gun maybe fixedfire, searching fire, traversing fire, or combinedtraversing and searching fire, swinging traverse fire, andfree gunfire.

FIXED FIRE is delivered against targets that

only require a single aiming point. The depth of thebeaten zone must be large enough to include the target.Fixed fire is continuous as long as any portion of thetarget remains in the zone of fire.

SEARCHING FIRE is distributed in depth-bysuccessive changes in the elevation of the gun.Searching fire is used against targets too deep to beincluded in the beaten zone of fixed fire. A burst of freeis delivered after each change in elevation.

TRAVERSING FIRE is distributed in width by

successive changes in the horizontal direction of thegun. A burst of fire is delivered after each change orduring the swing.

COMBINED TRAVERSING AND SEARCH-ING FIRE is distributed both in width and depth and bychanges in both elevation and horizontal direction.

SWINGING TRAVERSE FIRE is deliveredagainst targets too wide to cover with the traversing

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Figure 3-66.Delivering of overhead fire.

handwheel. Also, it is used against targets that aremoving so rapidly across the front of the gunner that heor she cannot maintain effective fire while using thetraversing handwheel.

FREE GUNFIRE is delivered from the tripodmount against a target requiring rapid, major changesin direction and elevation that cannot be made with thetraversing and elevating mechanism. Free gunfire canalso be used from a vehicular mount against a target thatcannot be adequately covered by selecting a series ofaiming points.

All types of fire can be delivered with biped-,

tripod-, or vehicular-mounted guns except as follows:swinging traverse fire cannot be delivered with bipod-or vehicular-mounted guns; free gunfire cannot be

delivered with bipod-mounted guns.

OVERHEAD FIRE

Overhead fire with the rifle is safe when the groundaffords protection to friendly troops or when the troopsare far enough below the line of fire (fig. 3-66). Whetheror not overhead fire should be used in any particular caseis a matter of judgment.

A machine gun on a tripod is capable of deliveringaccurate overhead fire because of the small, uniform

dispersion of the cone of fire. In the attack, the use ofoverhead fire permits the machine gun to support theadvance of the rifle units. To permit overhead fire on anytarget, pass the cone of fire over the heads of friendlytroops by a certain distance, called the MINIMUMCLEARANCE. Two rules are prescribed by which theminimum clearance may be determined: theGUNNERS RULE for ranges up to 900 yards and theLEADERS RULE for ranges greater than 900 yards.

Overhead fire will not be delivered by use of these rulesat ranges less than 400 yards or greater than 1,800 yards.

The steps in using the GUNNERS RULE are asfollows:

1. Lay the gun on the target with the correct sight

setting to hit the target.

2. Without disturbing the lay of the gun, set the rear

sight at 1,500 yards.

3. Look through the sights and note the point wherethis new line of aim strikes the ground. If this point isbeyond the feet of friendly troops, you may deliveroverhead fire safely until the troops reach this point. It

is not safe to fire when they pass this point.

The steps in the application of the LEADERS

RULE are as follows:

1. Select a point on the ground to which you believefriendly troops can advance with safety.

2. Determine the range to this point by the mostaccurate means available.

3. Lay the gun on the target with the correct sight

setting to hit the target.

4. Set the rear sight at 1,500 yards or at the

estimated range to the point plus 600 yards, whicheveris greater, without disturbing the lay of the gun. Under

no condition should the sight setting be less than 1,500yards.

5. Note the point where the new line of aim strikesthe ground. If it strikes at the selected point, that pointmarks the limit of safety.

6. If the new line of aim strikes the ground short of

the selected point, troops can advance safely to the pointwhere the line of aim strikes the ground and to an

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unknown point beyond. If you desire to fire afterfriendly troops advance farther than the point where theline of aim strikes the ground, you must determine thisfarther point by testing new points until the line of aimand the selected point coincide.

When you are in suitable terrain, watch a projectilestrike the ground. If it kicks up dust or other visiblematerial, follow the same procedure as you would withtracers.

FIRE DISCIPLINE

RANGE ESTIMATION

In combat, you seldom know ranges in advance. Tobring effective fire to bear on the enemy, train theriflemen and machine gunners to estimate rangesquickly and accurately. Ranges are estimated either byeye or by observation of fire.

ESITMATION BY EYE is the usual method ofestimating range in combat. You accomplish this bymentally applying a unit of measure to the distance tothe target. This unit is normally 100 yards. You need tobe familiar with the appearance of this unit of measureat various distances and over varying types of terrain to

be able to use this method effectively when estimatingranges by eye.

Eye estimation is difficult to apply for ranges ofmore than 500 yards. When the range exceeds 500 yards,estimate a point halfway to the target; then, double theestimate.

When much of the ground between the observer andthe target is hidden, eye estimation is difficult. In somecases, you may overcome this difficulty by the use of aMENTAL ARC. Move your gaze in a mental arc to theright or left of the target. Find a prominent object at

about the same range as the target, and use it to estimatethis range.

When none of the previously described methods are

feasible, you may possibly estimate the range by theappearance of objects. Conditions of light, atmosphere,color, and terrain affect the apparent distance of objects.

Accurate estimation of ranges by eye requiresconsiderable practice over all types of terrain and underall conditions of visibility. The use of known distanceranges, marked off in 100-yard intervals, isrecommended for initial training.

Range estimation of OBSERVATION OF FIRE isdetermined by observing the flight of tracer bullets orby observing the points where projectiles strike.

Tracer bullets leave a red trail for about 950 yardsof their flight. The shooter first estimates the range byeye to determine the initial sight setting. Thereafter, bywatching the strike of the tracer bullets, he or she

corrects the sight setting to hit the target.

Fire discipline is the state of order, coolness,

efficiency, and the obedience existing among troops ina fire fight. It implies the careful observance ofinstructions in the use of weapons in combat and theexecution of the exact orders of the leader. To haveeffective fire discipline, control it by having leaders. Theresponsibility for fire discipline in the platoon rests withthe platoon commander, assisted by his or hersubordinates. The squad leader maintains discipline inthe squad. There is a tendency for untrained machinegunners and riflemen to open fire at night when hearingnoises and on seeing imaginary targets. This isdangerous and wastes ammunition; but more important,

it gives the position away. Also, the enemy could standoff and send a couple of scouts into fire several shots orto throw some grenades at the defensive positions todraw responsive fire. If the fire discipline is poor, thedefenders return the fire. The enemy can then plot thelocations of the defense positions, plan an attack to avoidstrong points, or direct supporting fire accurately on thedefenders. The squad leader is responsible forcontrolling these tendencies in his or her squad.

FIRE CONTROL

Fire control includes all operations connected withthe preparation and actual application of fire to a target.Fire control implies the following abilities of the leader:

To have his or her unit open fire the instant he or

she desires

To adjust the fire of his or her weapons on thetarget

To shift fire from one target to another

To regulate the rate of fire

To cease firing at will

Lack of proper fire control causes the loss of thesurprise effect, premature disclosure of the position,misapplication of fire on unimportant targets, and waste

of ammunition. DISCIPLINE and CORRECTTECHNICAL TRAINING are fundamental in ensuringfire control.

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Figure 3-67Fire distribution by individuals of the rifle squad.

CONCENTRATED FIRE is directed at a singleThe platoon commanders order to his or her sectionof squad leaders assigns a mission to each section orsquad; gives the firing position area each squad willoccupy and the targets it will engage; or the sector offire it will cover. In addition, he or she frequently

prescribes the technique to use in engaging targets.

The section or squad leaders order prescribes thelocation for each weapon, the targets, and the technique

to be used. In the absence of orders from the next highercommander, the platoon, section, or squad leadersregulate opening fire and lifting, shifting, and rate offire.

FIRE DISTRIBUTION

The distribution of fire, to be effective, must be overthe entire target. Improper distribution results in gapsbetween zones and allows apart of the enemy to escape,to advance, or to use their weapons without effective

opposition.

Rifle Fire

The fire of a rifle unit is either concentrated ordistributed. The nature of the target, as given in the fireorder, will determine in each mind of the rifleman thetype of fire to use.

point. Enemy machine guns, bunkers, and heavyweapons are examples of suitable targets for

concentrated fire.

DISTRIBUTED FIRE is fire distributed in width

for the purpose of keeping all parts of a larger-than-pointtarget under effective fire. Each rifleman fires his or her

first shot at that portion of the target correspondinggenerally to his or her position in the squad. He or shethen dist

Service Rifle and Pistol and Marksmanship

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